Watson Batty set to design airport extension for Leeds Bradford

Leeds Bradford Airport has appointed Watson Batty Architects to design an extension to the departure lounge.

The appointment follows an ongoing brief for Watson Batty to support extension works planned as part of LBA’s ‘Route to 2030’ Strategic Development Plan.

The departure lounge’s 6,450 sq ft expansion will increase passenger airside space by extending the first floor and adding a new storey to the existing single storey area next to gates three and four.

The plans also include the introduction of a mezzanine floor at gate five.

Peter White, managing director at Watson Batty, said: “We are pleased to secure this further project with Leeds Bradford Airport after a detailed collaboration and consultation process.

“Over the last two years we have worked closely with the team at LBA to support a series of enabling projects, both airside and landside, and it is rewarding to know that our transport expertise is helping to build the future of a critical northern hub.”

The brief also specifies that there needs to be a programme where works can be undertaken with the constraints of a 24-hour functioning airport with minimum disruption.

Sophie Murr, Head of Projects at LBA, added: “Transformational projects across all areas of LBA are currently underway, all of which will make a huge positive difference to the passenger experience.

“All contractors on site are working 24 hours a day and are undertaking tasks with minimum disruption to passengers.”

Watson Batty has previously assisted Leeds Bradford Airport to improve circulation and flow of passengers around the terminal.

Whilst relocating over twenty retail and commercial tenants, the architects designed a 150-metre-long, 3-lane covered, external walkway from the terminal together with a major departure gate refurbishment.

Watson Batty also re-planned the passenger scanning area with new feature lifts to help increase the efficiency of people movement and wheelchair access.

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